Skipton start their Aire-Wharfe season campaign hoping to turn their fortunes around after the traumas of recent years.

And while the home match against Alwoodley on Saturday might attract the most attention, significant developments behind the scenes include the establishment of junior sides at under-11, 13, 15, and 18 level - the first time for many years that Skipton have run sides at all levels.

And much could fall on the shoulders of new recruit from Australia Robert Dilger, a 19-year-old who plays for Glenorchy, a senior side in Tasmania. While an unknown quantity until he takes to the field, Skipton have liked what they have seen so far.

David Whiteley has taken over as first team captain but it is in essence much the same side as last year. Through the exit door has gone Shabhir Hussein after more than 10 years at the club. He has joined Burley. But returning are Zafar Iqbal, an all-rounder who turned out for Skipton CI last week and wicket-keeper/batsman Andrew Strickland after a gap year Down Under. Mohammad Sagir, a prolific run gatherer for the second team, will also be turning out for the firsts this year and youngsters Chris Hope, Charles Baxter and Chris Parker were all blooded last season and should be a little more polished in a lower division.

Spokesman Geoff Fryers, who has dropped out of the reckoning to guide the next wave of emerging youngsters in the second team, said Skipton had their sights set on promotion.

"We did go down but did win seven of our 20 games," he said. "This team has been coming together for two years and I can't see any reason why they cannot go straight back up."